Follow leaf-covered Minister Creek Trail to the northwest through hemlocks and deciduous forest. After .6 mile, bear right at the junction to start the 5.2-mile loop around Minister Creek—you’ll stay within sight or sound of the creek for most of the trip. The trail passes gigantic, moss-covered boulders that were deposited by glaciers and crosses numerous streams. At mile 3.1, the route curves to the south for the return trip, crossing several more streams. Tackle a boulder-scrambling side-trip to an overlook above Minister Valley at mile 5 before closing the loop and retracing your route to the trailhead. Note: Use caution when hiking in Allegheny National Forest during hunting season. -Mapped by Mike Ciccone

Continue northeast descent toward Minister Creek. On the right, small trees grow out of a massive, moss-covered boulder (roughly 20 feet high and 40 feet long). Ahead, climb over or crawl under the large logs that block the trail.

MIN007

Location: 41.628994, -79.158577

Cross wood bridge over a tributary creek that flows into Minister creek.

MIN008

Location: 41.6303139, -79.1593552

Cross another wood bridge. Trail continues ascent into the woods along the right side of the creek. Ahead: Climb over several large trees that have fallen across the trail; walk through boggy area; and look for fossilized ripples in the sandstone boulders next to trail.

Walk across another bridge. From here the trail turns left off the North Country Trail and starts a steep climb away from Minister Creek. Look for moonstones (white limestone) that dot the trail.

MIN018

Location: 41.6453819, -79.1711731

Trail turns right (marked by black arrow on a white diamond blaze). Note: Although this isn't a junction, the trail can be hard to follow if you don't look for the markings. Next, trail crosses two more streams.

Just an hour and a half from Pittsburgh, this easy 3.2-mile loop rolls through forests bustling with migratory warblers, passes the spillway of the Yellow Creek dam, and tours the shore of Yellow Creek Lake.